This August, I flew from Australia back to Europe. Two weeks that felt like two months, filled with suppliers, photoshoots, and endless kilometers of creativity.
It all started in Brussels, where I landed after the long flight from Sydney. I barely had time to unpack before the adventure began: the very next morning, at 5 a.m, my cousin, Laetitia, and I were already on the road to Paris.
Paris, Three Days, Hundreds of Pieces
We spent three intense days in Paris, running between suppliers, exploring ateliers, and hand-picking the most beautiful pieces for Ayatana Australia. From soft Italian cottons to flowing viscose silhouettes, I wanted every piece to tell a story of freedom, elegance, and summer. No tourist moments, just pure fashion hunting from morning to night.
When we finally returned to Belgium late at night, I thought I could rest. But no, my suitcase barely hit the floor before it was time for the next destination.
This is a picture of a supplier shop front.
This is what you can find in the supplier's showroom
This is not a council clean-up but a whole new collection!
Malaga, Three Days Under the Spanish Sun
After only three hours of sleep, I flew to Malaga for a three-day photoshoot. Two full days of shooting with Alba, one day scouting locations, and lots of coffee in between. The Spanish light was magic :) golden, soft, perfect for capturing the spirit of Ayatana’s Resortwear. Every photo told a story: sun, sea, freedom, and effortless beauty.
Our pop-up pod made it so much easier!
Alba was modeling but also helping to carry everything
After a long day photo shooting under the Spanish sun, we had some tapas
This is the Catedral del la Encarnacion in Malaga
Germany, The Final Supplier Marathon
When I landed back in Brussels, my mum picked me up at the airport and we drove straight to Germany. Two more days of supplier visits, discovering unique fabrics and designs, building the future of Ayatana’s collections.
By the time I came home in Lue, I felt like I had lived a whole season in just fourteen days. Exhausted, but inspired beyond words.
What’s Coming Next
Every trip like this shapes Ayatana a little more. Behind each dress, kimono, or necklace, there’s a story, a face, a moment, a place in Europe that inspired it. And this journey was just the beginning of something even bigger… stay tuned.
